Under new MCLE rules to go into effect June 1st, the term "participatory credit" will no longer be applicable. Continuing legal education will only be categorized as either "accredited" or "self-study."

In recognition of the proliferation of CLE delivery methods in recent years, the definition of accredited CLE will be expanded to include podcasts (mp3s and mp4s), DVDs, and CDs that originate from live accredited activities. Furthermore, the number of allowable self-study hours will be decreased from 5 to 3 per year, effective one year later (June 1, 2011).

This change recognizes that many materials in formats currently approved only for self-study credit will soon be available as accredited CLE and there will be less need to rely on self-study options. For more information on the new rules, click here (pdf).